When brainstorming costume ideas this Halloween, shift your focus from cowboys and Indians to elephants and donkeys. Use the little time remaining to think creatively and, on October 31, make a political statement. After all, you can still be a sexy [insert animate object] next year.
Group Project: McCain Cars
Everyone now knows John and Cindy McCain own numerous homes, except John and Cindy themselves. However, equally "impressive" is the fact that they own 13 cars. Get together with 12 friends and dress up as one of the McCain's vehicles. This requires minimal effort as you can get away with ironing respective car logos onto Hanes T-shirts-from Lexis to Honda. Be fast and call dibs on being the 1960 Willys Jeep that's older than Obama.
A-
Satirical Obamas
Defend satire this Halloween by dressing as Barack and Michelle Obama as depicted on the cover of the July 21, issue of The New Yorker. The controversial illustration pocked fun at the notion the Obamas are Muslim terrorists. To dress up as Barack through the lens of Fox News, a robe, turban and sandals will suffice. To be a satirical Michelle, suit-up in a camo 'fit and combat boots before slinging a fake assault rifle across her back. Warning: know your audience and prepare for backlash. If you'd rather evade controversy, stick with that sexy sailor costume from last year.
W/P
Sarah Palin
While no one can compare to Tina Fey's impersonation, many will try. Head to Talbots to find that red power suit and complete the look with a flag pin. And to perfect Palin's famous up-do, sweep your bangs to the side and pull the rest up with a claw clip circa the mid-90s. Sarah Palin's signature Kawasaki eyeglasses are the most crucial aspect of her look. Extra credit if you can score an actual pair, as demand for the $375 frames has quadrupled. Pitbull lipstick goes without saying. While this costume gets points for pop-culture relevancy, you lose a lot for creativity. Warning: You may run into more than one Palin impersonator, so be creative and unique with accessories-and no, Trig is not original.
B-
Dubya
Although the possibilities are endless for George W. Bush, try dressing up as a Lame Duck--literally. With political spotlight on the presidential hopefuls, your costume will stand out. If feathers just aren't your thing, try a lost-or rather "left behind"-child symbolizing the shortcomings of No Child Left Behind. See: Peter Pan's lost boys for costume ideas. No, Tinkerbell does not count.
B-
Get The Chronicle straight to your inbox
Signup for our weekly newsletter. Cancel at any time.